Stanthorpe

Stanthorpe has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch

Based on analysis of ABS population updates for the broader area, and new addresses validated by AreaSearch, Stanthorpe's population is estimated at around 5,443 as of Nov 2025. This reflects an increase of 157 people (3.0%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 5,286 people. The change is inferred from the resident population of 5,420 estimated by AreaSearch following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2024 and an additional 24 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 170 persons per square kilometer, providing significant space per person and potential room for further development. Stanthorpe's 3.0% growth since census positions it within 2.2 percentage points of the SA4 region (5.2%), demonstrating competitive growth fundamentals. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by interstate migration that contributed approximately 55.00000000000001% of overall population gains during recent periods.

AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and for years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data, are adopted. It should be noted that these state projections do not provide age category splits; hence where utilised, AreaSearch is applying proportional growth weightings in line with the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (released in 2023, based on 2022 data) for each age cohort. As we examine future population trends, lower quartile growth of regional areas across the nation is anticipated, with the Stanthorpe statistical area expected to grow by 18 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting a reduction of 0.1% in total over the 17 years.

AreaSearch assessment of residential development drivers sees a low level of activity in Stanthorpe, placing the area among the bottom 25% of areas assessed nationally

Based on AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approval numbers, allocated from statistical area data, Stanthorpe experienced around 13 dwellings receiving development approval per year. Over the past 5 financial years, between FY-21 and FY-25, approximately 66 homes were approved, with a further 9 approved so far in FY-26. On average, about 0.6 new residents arrived per new home over these years.

This indicates that new construction is matching or outpacing demand, providing more options for buyers and potentially enabling population growth beyond current expectations. The average construction value of new properties was $433,000. Additionally, $8.5 million in commercial development approvals were recorded this financial year, reflecting the area's primarily residential nature. Compared to Rest of Qld, Stanthorpe shows approximately 57% of the construction activity per person.

Nationally, it places among the 40th percentile of areas assessed, suggesting somewhat limited buyer options while strengthening demand for established homes. This activity is also below average nationally, indicating the area's maturity and possible planning constraints. New building activity in Stanthorpe shows 77.0% standalone homes and 23.0% townhouses or apartments, maintaining the area's traditional low density character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space. The estimated count of 415 people per dwelling approval reflects its quiet, low activity development environment. With population expected to remain stable or decline, Stanthorpe should see reduced pressure on housing, potentially creating opportunities for buyers.

Stanthorpe has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally

Changes in local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified five projects that could affect this region. Notable ones are: 14 Wallangarra Road Student Accommodation, The Avenues Stanthorpe, Stanthorpe Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade, and Stanthorpe Streetscape Project. Below is a list of those most likely to be relevant.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Employment performance in Stanthorpe has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally

Stanthorpe has a balanced workforce with diverse sector representation. The unemployment rate was 5.4% in the past year, with an estimated employment growth of 3.8%.

As of September 2025, 1.3% more residents are unemployed compared to Rest of Qld's 4.1%, and workforce participation is lower at 47.0%. Leading industries include health care & social assistance, agriculture, forestry & fishing, and retail trade. Agriculture, forestry & fishing has a particularly high employment share, at 3.0 times the regional level, while mining shows lower representation at 0.6% versus the regional average of 3.6%. Many residents commute elsewhere for work.

In the past year, employment increased by 3.8%, alongside labour force growth of 6.9%, causing a rise in unemployment rate by 2.9 percentage points. State-level data to 25-Nov shows QLD employment contracted by 0.01%. National employment forecasts from May-25 suggest Stanthorpe's employment should increase by 6.0% over five years and 12.8% over ten years, based on industry-specific projections.

Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis

According to AreaSearch's aggregation of ATO data released on 30 June 2023, Stanthorpe had a median income among taxpayers of $38,665 and an average income of $47,217. These figures are below the national averages of $53,146 and $66,593 respectively for Rest of Qld. Based on Wage Price Index growth since 30 June 2023, estimated median and average incomes as of September 2025 would be approximately $42,497 and $51,896 respectively. The 2021 Census revealed that Stanthorpe's household, family, and personal incomes fall between the 2nd and 7th percentiles nationally. Income distribution shows that 33.2% of locals (1,807 people) earn between $400 and $799, unlike the broader area where the predominant income category is $1,500 to $2,999 at 31.7%. Economic circumstances indicate financial pressure, with 42.7% of households having weekly budgets below $800 after housing costs. After housing expenses, 85.1% of income remains, ranking at the 4th percentile nationally.

Stanthorpe is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership

Stanthorpe's dwelling structure, as per the latest Census, consisted of 88.4% houses and 11.6% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). This compares to Non-Metro Qld's figures of 92.3% houses and 7.6% other dwellings. Home ownership in Stanthorpe stood at 44.8%, with mortgaged dwellings at 23.8% and rented ones at 31.3%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,200, lower than Non-Metro Qld's average of $1,300. The median weekly rent in Stanthorpe was $250, compared to Non-Metro Qld's figure of $255. Nationally, Stanthorpe's mortgage repayments were significantly lower at $1,200 versus the Australian average of $1,863, and rents were substantially below the national figure of $375.

Stanthorpe features high concentrations of lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size

Family households account for 61.1% of all households, including 18.6% couples with children, 31.7% couples without children, and 9.8% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 38.9%, with lone person households at 36.2% and group households making up 2.6% of the total. The median household size is 2.1 people, which is smaller than the Rest of Qld average of 2.3.

Stanthorpe faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally

The area's university qualification rate is 16.3%, significantly lower than Australia's average of 30.4%. This disparity presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are the most common, at 12.3%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (2.5%) and graduate diplomas (1.5%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 37.2% of residents aged 15+ holding them - advanced diplomas comprise 9.2%, while certificates account for 28.0%.

Educational participation is high, with 25.1% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.3% in primary education, 8.7% in secondary education, and 1.9% pursuing tertiary education.

Transport servicing is very low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility

Public transport analysis indicates six active transport stops operating within Stanthorpe, consisting of a mix of buses. These stops are served by two individual routes, collectively offering 22 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated as limited, with residents typically located 977 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Service frequency averages three trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately three weekly trips per individual stop.

Health performance in Stanthorpe is a key challenge with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts

Stanthorpe faces significant health challenges with various conditions affecting both younger and older age groups. The private health cover rate stands at approximately 46%, covering about 2,499 people, which is lower than the national average of 55.7%.

Arthritis and mental health issues are prevalent, impacting 12.4% and 8.9% of residents respectively. Conversely, 59.6% of residents report no medical ailments, compared to 62.0% in the rest of Queensland. Stanthorpe has a higher proportion of residents aged 65 and over at 32.4%, or about 1,763 people, compared to 27.0% in the rest of Queensland.

Stanthorpe ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics

Stanthorpe has a lower cultural diversity compared to the average, with 88.3% of its population being Australian citizens, 83.2% born in Australia, and 90.4% speaking English only at home. The predominant religion in Stanthorpe is Christianity, accounting for 62.6% of the population, which is slightly lower than the regional average of 63.9%. In terms of ancestry, the top three groups are English (30.0%), Australian (27.2%), and Irish (8.5%).

Notably, Italian (8.2%) and German (4.4%) ethnicities are overrepresented in Stanthorpe compared to the regional averages of 2.8% and 5.6%, respectively. Additionally, Korean ethnicity is slightly higher at 0.4%.

Stanthorpe ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide

Stanthorpe's median age is 50 years, which is significantly older than Rest of Qld's 41 and higher than the Australian median of 38. The age profile shows that 16.6% of Stanthorpe's population falls within the 65-74 year-old group, compared to a national average of 9.4%. Conversely, the 5-14 year-old group makes up only 9.4% of Stanthorpe's population. Post-2021 Census data shows that the 15 to 24 age group grew from 8.9% to 11.1%, while the 75 to 84 cohort increased from 10.5% to 11.6%. However, the 5 to 14 year-old group declined from 11.6% to 9.4%, and the 45 to 54 age group dropped from 11.3% to 10.2%. Demographic modeling suggests that by 2041, Stanthorpe's population aged 85+ is projected to expand considerably, increasing by 141 people (62%) from 228 to 370. Senior residents aged 65 and above will drive 68% of population growth. Meanwhile, both the 35-44 and 65-74 age groups are expected to see reduced numbers.